CHILDREN and parents across six schools in Harlow, will have access to a family practitioner from mental health charity, Place2Be, thanks to a £25,000 grant from Essex Freemasons.

The family practitioner will work alongside parents to support and strengthen their confidence and parenting skills. This, in turn will reap benefits for the mental health and wellbeing of the children.

Place2Be delivers mental health support to children and young people in schools facing a whole range of issues, including anxiety, stress, low mood, bereavement, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts.

The charity has been working with schools in Harlow for many years, providing staff the opportunity to work with teaching professionals and offering support and counselling for young people.

The service continued during the pandemic through online and phone sessions, and was said to be “a lifeline by many parents.”

James Hollinsley, executive head of Longwood Primary Academy in Paringdon Road, said: “In 2015, this was a failing school with large number of children with additional wellbeing needs. Four years later we were described as the happiest primary school in the UK.

“While our team made considerable changes to improve and turn around the school, I cannot underestimate the support we have received from Place2Be who have helped to change the lives of many children with mental health issues. The service is a fundamental part of all of our NET Academies schools.”

Kate Armstrong-Taylor, area manager for Place2Be, added: “Based on our experience of working with schools in Essex and across the UK, we understand the vital role that parents and carers play in building their children’s resilience. With the support of the Family Practitioner, parents can improve their own confidence and strengthen family relationships, all of which will ultimately have a positive impact on their children’s wellbeing.

“This grant from Essex Freemasons will enable us to continue to develop our work in Harlow, supporting even more families through the work of the Family Practitioner.”

Paul Tarrant, provincial grand master for Essex Freemasons, said: “This is very much a community project helping vulnerable children and parents. With 8,000 members, many of whom live and work in the Harlow area, we are very much part of that same community which is why we have been delighted to help such a fantastic charity.”